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GAME OVER, MAN Movie Review

Netflix’s latest film project, Game Over Man! , is a slapstick comedy heist story that will have plenty of laughs, predictability, and low brow humor that won’t take many by surprise. Starring Adam Devine, Anders Holm, and Blake Anderson, three lowly housekeepers are down on their luck and want to make it big, only to stumble into what can be best described as a discount Die Hard knockoff hostage plot.

The heist begins.

The premise of the film follows the three friends on their quest to woo and gain favor of the Insta-Famous and insanely rich sensation, Bey Awadi (Utkarsh Ambudkar), who they are hoping will be interested in backing their latest scheme that involves an interactive, human controlled video game. As they prepare for what they think is the chance of a lifetime, a group of highly trained criminals sneak into the hotel posing as security to take the entire hotel hostage in order to steal Bey’s fortune. With a case of the worst timing ever, the trio witness an attack on their boss, having to run and hide from the would be criminal onslaught. Within minutes, the hotel is wired to blow and taken over, leaving the guys with two choices: Run or Save the Day.

Game Over Man

As you can guess, they run, only to be forced into a fight that leads them to a bizarre take down of two of the thugs that leads to way too much skin for Devine. As the film continues, they bumble and awkwardly push through the danger zone to try and save their shot at fame.

This film is a crotch shot in comedy, filling in every possible gross joke you can imagine that features over the top nudity, gore, and elements you’d find in a less than remembered episode of Family Guy. If you thought Borat was a bit hard to watch, this film is definitely not one you want to sit down to. From the get go, used condoms will fly, salads will be tossed, and your gag reflex will be in full throttle. For those who like this kind of humor, the film will be comedy gold. Yet, for the rest of the movie loving masses, this is a must pass.

The reason behind that is simple. The film is bloated, filled with way too many adolescent gags and jokes you’d hear from middle school locker rooms. The punch lines are undermined by the incessant need for blood and guts, and having so many cringe worthy scenes back to back to back makes it hard to digest and get through to the next part of the movie. Still, the performances are spot on and the entire cast gives it their all. A lot of effort and fun went into the creation of this movie. This provides some slight redemption, as it creates a genuine element that is desperately needed.

The film has star power, bringing in cameos from all ranges of television and film. Though it does feel like a Netflix class reunion with actors like Scrubs‘ Donald Faison and The Joel McHale Show with Joel McHale’s Joel McHale. (Say that five times fast). In the end, the cameos and few moments of surprise aren’t enough to keep this film from tanking.

Regardless of how well it will be received, a sequel was not only teased, but fully advertised at the end of the feature. There will be plenty more to come, and whether you like that or not, “Game Over” is just the beginning.

Game Over, Man! is rated MA and now available for all Netflix Subscribers.

Reflection “A Twisted Tale”: Book Review

“What if Mulan had to travel to the underworld?”

Let’s get down to business; Mulan’s epic journey to saving her family and country has taken a side trip, and Elizabeth Lim’s latest novel from Disney Press is the key to finding out what would happen if the happy ending we have all grown to love and adore decided to become a bit more complicated.

The story we all know follows Fa Mulan and her quest to save her father from the war against the invading Huns in China. She poses as a male, Fa Ping, racing off to fight for her family’s honor and to find her place in a world who won’t accept her for who she is. Yet, as we get closer to the climax of the story, something unexpected shifts the narrative. Mulan’s daring battle on the mountain side against Shan Yu doesn’t reveal her identity. As Shan Yu goes to attack Ping, Captain Li Shang jumps in front of her and takes a fatal blow.

The scene twists away from the original reveal and takes a darker turn, creating higher stakes and putting Li Shang’s very life in the balance. On the verge of death, Mulan sees a vision of Shang’s father, General Li, and is warned the captain will die by morning. Not wanting to accept his fate, Mulan is given the chance to venture into the realm of the Chinese underworld, Diyu. Defying the balance of life and death, she risks everything to rescue his soul and bring him back with her to the land of the living.

Mulan is accompanied by the Li Family Guardian, ShiShi, a towering stone lion that is arrogant, headstrong, and iron willed. His character, one of the many new characters introduced by the story, is nicely balanced, providing fun where it is needed, and a level of seriousness in others. He’s a bold character, and someone who isn’t afraid to speak his mind.

Another new character, King Yama, is the ruler of the underworld and makes a deal with Mulan to save Shang. The catch being that they have one night to find him and return him to the living world, otherwise she will be faced with an eternal punishment. Yama; however, doesn’t pull the strings in this story and instead hands the reigns over to another villain, Meng Po. Known as the “Lady of Forgetfulness”, Meng Po will be the biggest adversary preventing Mulan from her goal.

Meng Po, like many other elements of the story shift constantly, focusing entirely on deception and confusion. For readers, it does create an interesting shift in tide throughout the story, but is not unpredictable given the circumstances Mulan and company find themselves in. The entire story leads Mulan and the reader to not trust anything they come across. Meng Po pops up more than a few times with the same tricks up her sleeve. As a result, her schemes become very repetitive in nature and a bit exhausting. Though each illusion is different, Mulan and the audience aren’t fooled for a second. Because of that, the smoke and mirrors can be spotted a mile away.

Nevertheless, the book brings you closer into Mulan and Shang’s world, molding a more somber and insightful glimpse into their personas. The extra pages do a great job at filling in the gaps and giving you a stronger appreciation for the relationship building between these two.  You learn more about Shang’s backstory, his relationship with his father, and his challenge in overcoming Mulan’s deception as Ping. He still has that tough exterior, but we get to add more dimensions to him.

Meanwhile, more attention is given to the struggle Mulan faces with her self doubt. Her actions have a greater weight to them, really giving readers the opportunity to watch her battle with her inner demons, find harmony in her emotions, and come out with a better grip on what’s really important. Fitting in with the theme of the film, family and self acceptance are everything. Yet, by placing both characters in the underworld, Lim gave herself plenty of room for constructing beyond the established story. The underworld becomes a perfect setting for their personal journey.

The premise of the afterlife and Diyu is a very serious undertaking, one that could easily detract from the overall hopeful and joyful theme Disney is so well known for. Very few properties have touched the concept, and though the tagline for the book may turn some heads in confusion, the details and elements of this dark and mysterious realm round out a beautifully painted picture. It creates a middle ground of maturity and youthful optimism that is unexpected and fitting.

It’s also a terrific way for younger audiences to learn more about Chinese culture and mythology. A lot of elements in the story, such as the levels of Diyu, the locations, and challenges, come directly from real Chinese texts and teachings. Given the importance of historical and cultural accuracy, it’s a subtle and creative approach to bring more of the world of the ancient Chinese into the world of Disney. Similar to Hercules, its inclusively playful without feeling like a history lesson.

The novel overall is a fun and unique addition to the “Twisted Tales” series. Young adults and the young at heart will have plenty of entertaining moments to pour into. You can read a preview except via the recent post below featured on “Oh My Disney”

https://ohmy.disney.com/news/2017/11/15/mulan-fans-need-to-see-this-cover-art-and-excerpt-from-reflection-a-twisted-tale/#slider_15

Reflection: A Twisted Tale will be available on March 27th.

 

 

Guide to Epcot International Flower and Garden Topiaries

There are many reasons to love the Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival in Walt Disney World. One of those is the charming character topiaries on display throughout the park. These topiaries perfectly blend Disney magic and the spirit of Flower and Garden with their color and design. Of course, we couldn’t just look at them, we had to snag a few pictures to share as well! As soon as you enter the park you are greeted by Mickey and the gang! 

As you move past Spaceship Earth, you will find Donald and his nephews helping keep the gardens in tip-top shape. 

Further along, you run into the classic Epcot mascot Figment. 

When walking towards World Showcase, you can view the blossoming garden along the water line. 

Moving into World Showcase, you can find that this year’s centerpiece features three large butterfly topiaries. 

Right outside the Mexico pavilion, you will run into the Three Caballeros.  Anna and Elsa joyfully greet guests outside the Royal Summerhouse in Norway. But they are not the only character to greet you in this pavilion. 

A classic take on a Norwegian troll can also be found greeting guests in this pavilion. 

In China, a trio of Pandas can be viewed as you walk past. 

Do they not look as cuddly as the real thing? 

A more mysterious creature can also be found inside the China pavilion. 

As you make your way past the African Outpost, a comic duo await. 

Right across from Timone and Pumba, a classic movie scene from The Lion King can also be enjoyed. 

Snow White and the Seven Dwarves can be found in the Germany pavilion. 

As you pass by the Italy pavilion, you might see something that seems dog-gon familiar! It’s our lovely Lady and the Tramp.

Andy’s favorite toy greets you in the America pavilion. And don’t forget to grab some of that tasty BBQ from the Smokehouse when you visit him. 

Two of the most popular topiaries can be found in the France pavilion. Beauty and the Beast greet you as you make your way through the country. 

Our friend Peter Pan can be found dueling the ole Captain Hook in England. 

Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, and Rabbit can all also be found between England and Canada. 

A new addition the ferstival this year includes these wood stump carvings in the Canada pavilion. 

As you head back to the beginning of World Showcase, you can find these cuddly woodland creatures. 

By Test Track, you will find the Road to the Daytona 500 where everyone’s favorites cars Lightning McQueen and Cruz Ramirez will greet you. 

Another one of Andy’s toys can be seen trying to catch a ride to Star Command by Mission Space. 

Daisy, Chip, and Dale are found by the Journey into Imagination ride. 

Of course, other smaller creatures can be found hiding out in the gardens of the festival. 

There are so many wonders to see at this year’s Flower and Garden Festival. So head on over to Epcot right away! The festival is taking place now through May 18th.

Splitsville Opens at The Disneyland Resort

The wait is finally over!  March 15, 2018 marked the grand opening of Splitsville Luxury Lanes in Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort.  This complex features an array of entertainment and dining experiences that fits the new persona coming to the area.  Grab a bowling ball and roll into one of 20 lanes in this two-story venue.  Dining includes sushi, sliders, pizza, and, of course, adult refreshments.  Some noteworthy choices include the steak, cheese, and egg slider and a philly cheesesteak pizza.

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From family fun to date nights, Splitsville will be an exciting destination for all ages. With 600 dining seats, two craft cocktail bars, two bustling kitchens, 20 bowling lanes and a prominent covered patio with a stage that will feature live music 365 days a year, Splitsville will offer visitors a one-of-a-kind, multi-faceted entertainment experience in a California-cool environment.

“Splitsville was designed as a restaurant first,” says co-owner Mark Gibson. “We then added bowling lanes in small clusters and arranged the lanes in different directions. The result is a unique environment where guests can enjoy drinks and dinner away from the activity or jump into the action and bowl a few frames with their friends while having food and beverages delivered to their lane.”

Food connoisseurs will discover a menu that is a cut above similar entertainment complexes. From top-notch sushi to expertly grilled salmon, the cuisine caters to guests with discerning palates. Even the more traditional bowling alley classics like nachos and pizzas are elevated to new heights with premium toppings and fresh ingredients.

The location itself offers more than 40,000 square feet of entertainment space with two levels, housed in a mid-century modern building with interior decor that gives a nod to California architecture, while remaining comfortable and playful. Guests will be treated with a spectacular view of the Downtown Disney District from the second level dining room, and the indoor-outdoor bar on the first floor will overlook the patio, live entertainment, main dining room, and sushi kitchen. Semi-private lounges will allow guests to bowl and enjoy craft cocktails in an atmosphere that is distinctly Disney.

Not into bowling?  No worries.  There is plenty of seating available to choose from near an open fireplace or overlooking Downtown Disney.  A similar establishment has already been open in Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort since 2012.  So if your family would like engage in a friendly competition with each other, then “roll in and rock out” at Splitsville Luxury Lanes!

“This Splitsville location will be the flagship for our company,” says co-owner Guy Revelle. “It will take several visits to enjoy all the different offerings. You really can’t describe this Splitsville, you have to come see it! Get ready to roll in and rock out with us!”

Disney “spared” no expense, even Goofy came out to demonstrate how to “safely” bowl a strike!

Disneyland After Dark Returns May 3rd with Special Star Wars Nite

“Disneyland After Dark” returns this May with a special Star Wars Nite, being the second in a series of after hours events the park will host featuring various themes and exclusives. Park guests will get a chance to have the park all to themselves in a special celebration of all things Star Wars that includes meet and greets and themed attractions.

Rey, who was previously announced to arrive in May to Star Wars Launch Bay, will debut at the event alongside her Wookie companion, Chewbacca. Hyperspace Mountain will also return riders to a galaxy far, far away. Whether or not the overlay will remain after the event has not yet been confirmed.

Guests are encouraged to dress up in costumes and join in the celebration, that will include the “March of the First Order”, which previously has only been featured at Walt Disney World’s Disney Hollywood Studios. The event will also feature themed decor, Star Wars themed photo ops, and early access to “May the 4th” merchandise. Each Guest will be given a commemorative lanyard, event credential, and free PhotoPass images for the event.

Captain Phasma and the "March of The First Order" in Disney's Hollywood Studios in Florida.
Captain Phasma and the “March of The First Order” in Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.

Tickets will go on sale March 27th for Disneyland Annual Passholders.

Tickets will be available to the general public starting on March 29th.

Mark your calendars and May the Force be with You!

 

Avengers: Infinity War Tickets Now on Sale

It’s time to suit up Marvel fans, tickets are now on sale to see this April’s highly anticipated, Avengers: Infinity War. There will be plenty of options to experience the latest Marvel film, including opening night fan events, marathons, and limited time collectible screenings. AMC Theaters will be hosting multiple events, including a 31 hour marathon featuring select films from the MCU leading up to Infinity War. The El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood will also be be hosting a condensed marathon that will include special guest appearances, costume display, and other exclusive goodies.

Take a look at the latest poster for Avengers: Infinity War.
Take a look at the latest poster for Avengers: Infinity War.

Worlds are colliding, and for the first time, Earth will experience the terrifying power of Thanos. For a decade, Marvel has teased at what’s yet to come through clever easter eggs and an onslaught of end credit scenes. All of those elements carefully placed to lead us through the early days of Iron Man to the path of the Guardians of the Galaxy, ultimately taking us to the legendary battle we have all been waiting for. Marvel Studios has released an epic two minute trailer for the film to kick off the final countdown to April, which can be seen below:

Tickets should sale fast, so take a look at our quick guide on where and when you can snag your seat for the latest Marvel adventure! More local theaters and venues will be hosting their own special events. These are just a handful of the options available.

AMC Theaters

Avengers: Infinity War Marathon – Details are TBA

Avengers Infinity War Opening Night Fan Event – Fans will get to see the film one hour early, receive a collectible coin, see exclusive footage, as well as receive special concessions.

Tickets and Details Available Here

El Capitan Theatre (Hollywood, CA):

Avengers: Infinity War Marathon – Fans will experience over a 29 hour marathon featuring the following Marvel Films (Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, Thor, Captain America: The First Avenger, The Avengers, Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Age of Ultron, Captain America: Civil War, Spider-Man: Homecoming, Doctor Strange, Black Panther, Avengers: Infinity War)

The marathon will also include meal breaks, a costume contest, raffle prizes, souvenir hexagon popcorn tub, exclusive content, commemorative poster, and more.

Tickets and Details Available Here

Regal Theaters

Avengers: Infinity War Fan Event – Fans will receive a commemorative coin, exclusive content, concessions, and one hour early screening of the film.

Tickets and Details Available Here

Cinemark Theaters

Avengers: Infinity War Fan Event – Fans will receive exclusive content, collectible coin, early screening access, and special concessions.

Avengers: Infinity War Marathon – 11 films will be screened along with exclusive collectibles, concessions, and content. More details to come from Cinemark.

Tickets and Details Available Here

TCL Chinese Theatre

Avengers: Infinity War 2D/3D Laser Show – Fans will be treated to TCL’s unique laser show experience.

Avengers: Infinity War MX4D Experience – Special motion and sensory features will bring you into the film that include moving seats, special effects, and other surprises.

Tickets and Details Available Here

 

 

Prepare for Earth Day with Disney•Pixar at El Capitan Theatre – April 6-15

The legendary El Capitan Theatre is celebrating Earth Day this April with a special engagement of Disney•Pixar’s “A Bug’s Life” April 6-11 and Disney•Pixar’s “Wall-E” April 12-15. In addition, a Disney•Pixar short will be shown before every screening of each movie: “Geri’s Game” before “A Bug’s Life” and “Presto” before “Wall-E”.

“We are celebrating two milestone anniversaries this year with the 20th anniversary of “A Bug’s Life” and the 10th anniversary of “Wall-E” said Ed Collins, General Manager of The El Capitan Theatre. “And what better way to honor Earth Day than with the return of these two Disney•Pixar classics? It’s a one of a kind experience, that can only be found at The El Capitan Theatre.”

Showtimes for both movies are 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now, and available at The El Capitan Theatre (6838 Hollywood Blvd.), online at www.elcapitantickets.com, or by calling 1-800-DISNEY6 (1-800-347-6396). Special group rates for parties of 20 or more are available by calling 1-818-845-3110. Showtimes are subject to change.

The El Capitan Theatre will also host a very special Tiny Tot Tuesday on April 10th at 10:00am for Tuesday “A Bug’s Life.” During this special screening, parents and small children may enjoy the movie in a tot-friendly way—with lights dimmed rather than out and reduced sound levels.

ABOUT “A BUG’S LIFE”
Originally released in 1998. Embark on an incredible journey with one little ant as he searches for a brave band of warriors to help him battle the bullying grasshoppers who threaten his home. When he stumbles on a bumbling troupe of circus bugs instead, their only hope for victory is the bond of friendship and the awesome power of imagination.

ABOUT “WALL-E”
Originally released in 2008. After hundreds of lonely years of doing what he was built for, the curious and lovable WALL-E discovers a new purpose in life when he meets a sleek search robot named EVE.

ABOUT “GERI’S GAME”
In an empty, tree-filled park, an old man sets out a game of chess. Sitting, he puts on spectacles and makes the first move: 1) e4. He removes his glasses, stands, and with the bent shuffle of a pensioner, walks around the table to sit on the other side.

ABOUT “PRESTO”
Dignity. Poise. Mystery. We expect nothing less from the great, turn-of-the-century magician, Presto. But, when Presto forgets to feed his rabbit one too many times, well, there’s really no telling what to expect! Follow the escalating high jinx of the amazing Presto, his rabbit Alec, and what happens onstage when a star magician’s ego provokes some clever revenge from his neglected costar.

TOMB RAIDER Movie Review

Imagine a film where the lead is an adventurous, tough as nails types who also has happens to have father issues. But the father is the key to unlocking a potential treasure that could change the world, and through his notes, our hero is whisked away on an adventure that is full of deadly temples, a lot of bad guys, and action! If that sounds vaguely familiar to you, you’ve probably seen Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade as well, and from what can be seen in Tomb Raider – – the new reboot film based on the incredibly popular Tomb Raider franchise – – so have the people behind the film. In fact, they like the movie so much that Tomb Raider feels like the diet Coke take on The Last Crusade, with nothing really new to say or add to the genre. Instead, it just feels like a paint by numbers take on a well worn genre that so badly wants to be fun an exciting, but instead becomes cliche and tired.

Director Roar Uthaug, along with his writers Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Alastair Siddons, clearly have love for the Tomb Raider video game franchise, but unfortunately that love doesn’t translate to a very good film. Instead, the script feels like it has been pieced together from other better movies and films, so every beat feels too familiar, leaving nothing new or exciting for the audience to latch onto. It’s frustrating, because this is a franchise that could rival some of the best adventure films, but instead it tries to be them, and it ends up creating a film with no identity for itself.

Alicia Vikander tries as hard as she can to bring this new iteration of Lara Croft to life, and while the film doesn’t really support her, she still manages to give a good performance. She’s likable, fun, and really embodies this younger take on Lara than we’re used to. By taking the film in an origin direction, it gives her a chance to try and craft her own take on Croft while also being familiar to what the audience knows, and for the most part, it succeeds. However, as good as Vikander is, she alone can’t carry the film, and unfortunately her supporting cast isn’t that remarkable. Both Walton Goggins and Dominic West try hard in their supporting roles, but the problem is, both characters really don’t amount to much in the end. Goggins is the stereotypical bad guy you expect from these movies who does bad things just to be bad, while West plays Croft’s father, who is supposed to represent what she should become. The problem is, the script doesn’t do anything in particular with either character to make you care, and it’s frustrating when they should be two sides of the coin that Lara could fall into.

Therein in lies the problem with the new Tomb Raider film, as it simply just exists to exist, wasting what could really become a great film franchise. But in the legacy of prequel stories we probably didn’t need, this one is near the top, and also plays into why the film misses the mark. Lara Croft doesn’t really need an origin story, because that’s not what makes her interesting. What makes the character interesting is when we first met her in the games, and she was a kick ass female Indiana Jones in nature character, and we didn’t need to know how she became this way. She existed as she was, and we accepted that. There’s nothing of interest in Lara’s history that we needed to see. It would have been much more interesting if they had just made a brand new adventure with no origin, but the way of the current studio system dictates origin films must exist, so here we are.

It’s frustrating when a property like Tomb Raider shows so much promise as a film, only to fall apart and not reach its potential. The action is fine, and kinda fun throughout, but the movie never amounts to more than that. Even the traps in the temple seem familiar, many of which feel lifted from other films, which adds to the fact that this movie doesn’t really seem to have any real identity for itself. Everything about it feels forced in a way that it shouldn’t, and really just overall wastes the Tomb Raider name.

Tomb Raider should have been the next big action blockbuster franchise. It’s got a wonderful lead in Alicia Vikander and a great source to pull from, but instead, the movie shows up pretty lifeless instead. There’s moments of fun to be had, but even those moments come from other movies, giving Tomb Raider no life of its own. It’s just frustrating that the film wastes the potential of what this franchise could be, and instead wants it to be like everything else. Instead of being unique as it should be, it’s every other adventure film you’ve ever seen, and both Vikander and the character Lara Croft deserve better.

 

Experience AMC’s new haunting drama, “The Terror” at Wondercon in Anaheim

 - The Terror _ Season 1, Episode 2 - Photo Credit: Screengrab/AMC

To kick-off the launch of AMC’s new haunting drama, “The Terror,” the network is inviting everyone in the Anaheim area to enter the Arctic as the real-life crew of this ill-fated expedition did in 1845. The fully immersive, multi-sensory experience offers guests a first-hand look as a crew member aboard the ship’s disastrous trip through the desolate polar landscape. Guests will feel the bone-chilling air, smell the fear and despair and hear the horrific sounds of men fighting for their survival. From executive producers Ridley Scott, David Kajganich and Soo Hugh, the harrowing journey begins with a two-hour series premiere on Monday, March 26 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on AMC.

WONDERCON LOCATION INFORMATION:

  • Dates: March 23-25
  • Location: The Grand Plaza of the Anaheim Convention Center
  • Hours of Operation:
  • Friday, 3/23 from 11:30am – 8:00pm
  • Saturday, 3/24 from 10:00am – 8:00pm
  • Sunday, 3/25 from 10:00am – 5:00pm

“The Terror” is a suspenseful thriller that follows a British Royal Naval expedition as they set sail in search of the Northwest Passage. Faced with treacherous conditions, limited resources, dwindling hope, fear of the unknown and attacks by a mysterious predator, the crew is pushed to the brink of extinction. The series is speculative fiction based on the lost voyage where more than 120 crew members inexplicably disappeared. Their fate is one of the enduring mysteries of the age of exploration. This epic series features distinctive imagery and landscapes, with a visual quality that is emblematic in scale and scope of a Ridley Scott production.

Tobias Menzies as James Fitzjames – The Terror _ Season 1, Episode 3 – Photo Credit: Screengrab/AMC

The ten-episode series stars Jared Harris (The Crown, Mad Men) as Captain Francis Crozier, Tobias Menzies (Outlander) as Captain James Fitzjames, Ciarán Hinds (Game of Thrones) as Sir John Franklin, Paul Ready (Cuffs) as Dr. Harry Goodsir, Adam Nagaitis (Suffragette) as Cornelius Hickey, Nive Nielsen (The New World) as Lady Silence and Ian Hart (Neverland) as Thomas Blanky.

“The Terror” is produced by Scott Free, Emjag Productions and Entertainment 360 in association with AMC Studios. In addition to Scott, Kajganich and Hugh, the series is executive produced by David W. Zucker, Alexandra Milchan, Scott Lambert and Guymon Casady.

A Special First Look at Disneyland’s “Together Forever- A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular”

On April 13th, Pixar Fest will go off with a bang with the new “Together Forever” fireworks that will debut in Disneyland park as part of the ongoing celebration of all things Pixar. Using the same projection technology that made Disneyland’s 60th anniversary show, “Disneyland Forever”, such a big success, the show will feature multiple viewing areas that include Main Street USA, Sleeping Beauty Castle, and the Rivers of America.

In some of the released images, provided by The Disney Parks Blog, fans will also get a closer look at Coco, which just won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature as well as Best Original Song. Other elements will include the “Up” house, Buzz Lightyear, and “Cars”.

Take a look at the full announcement by the Disney Parks Blog below:

https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2018/03/first-look-together-forever-a-pixar-nighttime-spectacular-coming-to-disneyland-park-april-13-with-pixar-fest/

Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Musical Comes to Los Angeles

“Tsuki ni kawatte, oshiokiyo!”

Sailor Moon is one of the most recognizable and beloved Japanese franchises worldwide with over 35 million copies of manga sold, 8 seasons of anime, a successful live action series, as well as multiple stage musicals dedicated to the magical girl story.

For those who aren’t familiar with the franchise, the story follows young Usagi Tsukino (Serena in the original American dub) and her female companions as they discover magical abilities that can help defend the world from an onslaught of evil forces focused on destruction and world domination. The series has 5 main story arcs: Sailor Moon, R, S, Super S, and Sailor Stars.  Each chapter follows new villains, characters, and struggles.

Celebrating it’s 25th anniversary, CineLife Entertainment has brought the widely popular stage musical to the US through a special screening event in theaters across the country. Following the final story arc of the manga, the performance is the first time American audiences have had the opportunity to see any form of the stage show. The performances began back in 2013, and each year since, Japanese audiences have seen every story arc transformed into a fully packed musical extravaganza.

For this performance, Le Mouvement Final, Usagi (Sailor Moon), must say goodbye to her boyfriend and companion, Mamoru Chiba, as he goes to study in America. As he leaves, the world is invaded by Shadow Galaxia and her minions, hellbent on devouring the world and consuming the Sailor Guardians “Sailor Crystals”, which will give them the power to shape the galaxy to their will. At the same time, three mysterious figures appear, who introduce themselves as a new sensational band named “Three Lights”. Usagi must transform and fight to save her love, family, and new friends in the toughest battle she has ever faced.

The show runs for an impressive 165 minutes, which condenses the entire manga arc into one show along with musical numbers, special effects, and a full female ensemble. After the story ends, the characters come out and perform multiple song numbers, focusing mostly on Mamoru Chiba’s alter ego, Tuxedo Mask. It’s a fun filled performance for all ages and a unique opportunity to share in the fun that was exclusive to Japan up to this point.

Each song is unique to the show, and every character has an opportunity to shine on stage. Lyrics are provided with the dialogue throughout the show with full translation. The set pieces are simple, with the production relying on the actresses on stage rather than flashy set changes. Though very cheesy and over the top, there are so many fantastic performances that showcase a wide array of emotions that fit perfectly in sync with what you’d expect from the anime or manga series. It’s a must see for any hardcore anime fan and only here for a very limited time.

Copyright Nakeuchi Naoko / PNP / Musical Sailor Moon Production Committee
Copyright Nakeuchi Naoko / PNP / Musical Sailor Moon Production Committee

While the screening only highlights the end of the 5 year run in Japan, it is still significant since it shows the long lasting demand for Sailor Moon across the globe. Similar to Power Rangers, Pokemon, and Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon is a household name that continues to awe new generations rather than fading into yesteryear. The musical also showcases a story arc that is not widely known outside of Japan.

The anime, which aired in the US from 1995 to 2000, only dubbed and showcased four of the five story arcs. Sailor Stars, which was never dubbed in the US, was just released to US audiences through Hulu in 2015. Though the stage play is a super condensed version of that story, it’s still something that is very fresh and new, providing more content for rabid fans waiting for anything they can get their hands on.

For those interested in learning more about the film and where they can see it, please visit the official page below:

https://sailormoonlive.com/

There will be a variety of showings available across the LA area until March 21st.

 

Opening Ceremony presented its Spring 2018 runway show “The Happiest Show on Earth”

ANAHEIM, CA - MARCH 07: Disney kicks off "Mickey the True Original" campaign in celebration of Mickey's 90th anniversary with a fashion show featuring a Mickey-inspired collection by Opening Ceremony at Disneyland on March 7, 2018 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images for Disney)

Opening Ceremony presented its Spring 2018 runway show, entitled “The Happiest Show on Earth,” on the iconic grounds of Disneyland in Anaheim, California, which was inspired by Mickey Mouse, the true original who celebrates his ninetieth anniversary this year.

Drawing from the Californian roots of founders Humberto Leon and Carol Lim, and Opening Ceremony and Disney’s shared lineage of fantasy and imagination, the show presented Opening Ceremony’s Spring 2018 collection alongside a brand-new collaboration between Opening Ceremony and Disney, celebrating Mickey Mouse.

The collaboration serves as the launch of “Mickey the True Original”—a global celebration of Mickey’s heritage, personality, and status as a pop-culture icon. The campaign will come to life through fashion collaborations with other true original brands, as well as engaging content and events that embrace Mickey’s impact on the past, present and future. The event also marked the first fashion show at Disneyland in over 40 years.

The show was held in Toon Town, the Disneyland home of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald Duck. Mickey and Minnie made an appearance wearing Opening Ceremony designs. The show featured a halftime show with cast-members from Mickey’s Soundsational Parade. Ezra Rubin a.k.a. Kingdom, a longtime friend of Opening Ceremony, composed an original score for the show inspired by the Disney classic “It’s A Small World,” and the score to Fantasia, originally performed by the Philadelphia Orchestra.

ANAHEIM, CA – MARCH 07: Disney kicks off “Mickey the True Original” campaign in celebration of Mickey’s 90th anniversary with a fashion show featuring a Mickey-inspired collection by Opening Ceremony at Disneyland on March 7, 2018 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Disney)

The collection, which includes men’s, women’s, and unisex pieces, puts a luxe spin on classic Disney iconography. For womenswear, Opening Ceremony reinterprets vintage Mickey Mouse art, transforming the playful character into unconventional prints on silk dresses, taffeta pants and poplin gowns. Other pieces draw from Mickey’s iconic silhouette: a jacquard skirt features Mickey-esque black-and-white-sequins, while the circular sleeves of a poplin dress evoke his famous ears. Denim pants and jackets twist vintage Disneyland souvenirs, embroidering the names of the cities the parks call home alongside the OC logo. Menswear and unisex pieces include nylon tracksuits, twill carpenter pants with a scribble-effect Mickey, and a wool varsity jacket with Disney and OC patches.

A selection of T-shirts, sweatpants, hoodies from the collection are now available online at openingceremony.com and shopdisney.com, and in store at all global Opening Ceremony locations. Ready-to-wear fashion pieces will release in November 2018.

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